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This is just a short list of some of the new laws going into effect for 2010.

Cows. SB 135 makes it a misdemeanor to chop off a cow’s tail, except for when it’s medically necessary.

Dental assistants. AB 667 authorizes dental assistants to apply fluoride to the teeth of school kids, under the “general direction” of a dentist.

Graffiti. AB 576 legally defines local agencies as “victims” when it comes to graffiti vandalism. That will allow the agencies to seek restitution for cleanup from convicted vandals.

Honey. AB 1216 changes the definition of the word “honey,” in a bid to thwart deceptive labeling practices. Among other things, it must be no more than 20 percent water.

Junk dealers. SB 627 requires junk dealers and recyclers to keep written records when they buy catalytic converters. The idea is to cool off the market for “hot” catalytic converters stolen for the valuable metals inside them.

Loitering. SB 492 hikes fines and jail time for registered gang members who hang around schools within 72 hours of having been warned to scram. A conviction could result in up to a year in jail.

Milk. SB 572 designates May 22 as Harvey Milk Day, and requires schools to observe the birth date of the assassinated gay rights leader as a “day of special significance.”

Oil spills. AB 305 imposes jail time for those convicted of knowingly failing to report oil spills, or lying about them.

Raffles. SB 200 allows raffles for charities and other nonprofits to be advertised – but not conducted – via the Internet.

Trans fat will become oil non grata in California restaurants on New Year’s Day, when the state becomes the first in the country to ban the use of the artery-clogging, partially hydrogenated vegetable substance. Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger signed the bill outlawing trans fats in July 2008, but the measure gave restaurants until Friday to comply. Bakeries will have until Jan. 1, 2011. Trans fats have long been considered unhealthy, contributing to increased levels of so-called bad cholesterol in people and higher rates of obesity and coronary artery disease. The substance, which is created when hydrogen is added to liquid vegetable oil, is often used in fried foods, pre-packaged products such as cookies and crackers, and shortenings.

Unclaimed property. AB 1291 strengthens the current unclaimed property law by increasing requirements for banks and other institutions to inform customers about dormant accounts and other assets.

Video. AB 62 allows people to drive vehicles with video screens operating in the front seat, as long as the driver can’t see them.

(From Justin : It’s sad when a law has to be written to stop “Cow Tail Chopping”. Happy New Year!)